1985mb

US-spec cars had different headlights to match the US DOT regulations at that time.

The rest of the world got the original lights (unless there were a few other countries which received the US-spec imports), which enthusiasts in the US refer to as "Euros"

The difference is most prominent on the Gen 1 cars -- by Gen 2, the US cars had lights closer in appearance to the Euros, but still easily noticeable to any W126 enthusiast.

The improvement in appearance as well as performance means there is a market still today for the Euro lights in the US - the Bosch originals as well as replicas by TYC and Depo.

Interestingly enough, there are a few people in other countries who want the US DOT lights for their Euro-spec cars.

nomad

That's right, I'm one of them

I live in a country that had euros as standard so I see them all the time
I'd like something a little different on my car and I'd love to have DOT lights for it
I'm not concerned about light output issues as I'd be replacing the sealed beam lamp units with more modern ones anyway

If any of you know of any DOT lamps available for cheap, let me know...please

BENZITCH

I have a USA set, for a sedan. I would be willing to exchange, but I would like to have the Euro coupe lighs.
Bruce